Israelis critical of Obama on Syria

Sept. 1 - U.S. President Barack Obama's decision to delay imminent strikes on Syria for a congressional vote is raising concerns among Israelis over their ally's resolve. Lindsey Parietti reports.

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Israel forces in the Golan Heights overlooking Syria.
The security implications of U.S. President Barack Obama's decision to put the brakes on his own immediate military action is being keenly watched here.
Obama said he will now ask Congress for approval before attacking Syria over suspected chemical weapons use.
Some Israelis had harsh criticism for the president over the delay and questioned U.S. resolve in the region.
(SOUNDBITE) (English) MICHAEL TURTLETAUB, RESIDENT OF JERUSALEM, SAYING:
"When our security is on the line it does not feel very good to have an American president who is playing games."
(SOUNDBITE) (English) JAY SHAPIRO, RESIDENT OF JERUSALEM, SAYING:
"He speaks loudly and he carries no stick. As a consequence we will have to take action that we have to take because he does not have as he said I have your back, he doesn't have our back, he doesn't even have America's back."
No sign of alarm from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at his weekly cabinet meeting - he said Israel could act alone.
"Israel is serene and self confident," he told his colleagues, "the citizens of Israel know well we are prepared for any possible eventuality."
The U.S. Congress is on recess until next week, and may vote to block strikes on Syria when it reconvenes, considering U.S. voters weary of wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.